Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach in anyway but am inspired by the work created by Tite Kubo

Author's Note: Time jump here, I enjoyed the day to day week to week but I want to get this moving again. Thanks to all those who have read and reviewed thus far, I hope to not disappoint with these next couple of chapters. More fluff here but the drama will kick up in the chapters following this one. Sorry again for the long delay, the plot bunnies for this one have not been very well fed so it's taking longer to put together (hopefully) quality material.

Chapter 20: A Time of Celebration

One Year Later…

Orihime looked at the calendar and yawned. She couldn't believe it had already been one year since she and Ichigo moved into their apartment. Life had been somewhat normal for the usually supernaturally plagued couple. Despite the occasional hollow fight that Ichigo assisted with to any shinigami assigned to Boston their days were filled with work, school and becoming closer as a couple.

The healer had been able to enroll in a local small culinary school which she was enjoying immensely. It wasn't that she didn't enjoy general studies but her passion for food had increased since working for Cheryl and Robert who had recommended the school to her if she wanted to hone her skills.

Now she was looking forward to two weeks off of school and work to go see all their friends in Soul Society in attendance at Rukia and Renji's wedding, especially since she had been feeling run down as of late. Said trip was the cause of Orihime's current activity of packing.

"Ichigo," she called down the hall, "Where is your formal kimono?" She'd looked through all their clothing but was still unable to locate it.

From his place at the kitchen table where he was planning out his next semester's courses he called back, "It's at the dry cleaners. When I pulled it out of the closet there was some crap on it. It's ready today I'll go pick it up." Dropping the pen from his hand he grabbed his wallet and keys, the two of them having acquired an extremely used but very cheap car so they could get around the city without relying on Vincent all the time though they stayed in contact with the middle aged friend, frequently having him join them for a meal.

"Thank you! Oh! Can you pick up a sewing repair kit from there too? Always good to have one on hand at a wedding!" she called not aware that he was right behind her. "Sure thing," he whispered in her ear making her squeal and drop the bundle of clothes in her arms spinning around quickly. Ichigo laughed as he gathered her up for a kiss before heading back down the hall and out the door. Orihime's heart was still pounding in her chest both from him startling her and from the kiss. He could still make her weak kneed though this time she felt a little light headed too. Frowning she made her way to the bed to sit down for a minute.

Ichigo's errand didn't take long and after his return he helped his girlfriend finish up the packing so they'd be ready in the morning. Climbing into bed together that night Orihime sighed as Ichigo ran his fingers through her hair. "Whatcha thinking about?" he asked in a low voice, kissing her cheek. She smiled brightly, "Just excited to see everyone again! It's been so long since the last time we were all together." Ichigo reflected on that, recalling that the last time they'd seen their shinigami friends all in one place had been when they were under siege. He was exceedingly glad their trip was because of something positive. Snuggling closer together the couple soon fell asleep, each looking forward to what the dawn would bring.

The next morning they were up early waiting for their contact to arrive. When Orihime opened the door to answer its knock she squealed in surprise, "Shuuhei-kun?!" Throwing her arms around his neck she hugged him fiercely and Ichigo was amused to see the lieutenant appearing to have some difficulty breathing.

"Hey, Orihime," he rasped out before she finally let him go. "Sorry," she said excitedly, "I'm just so happy to see you! I can't believe you're our escort!" He grinned down at her then moved around extending his hand to Ichigo who took it in his own for a firm handshake.

"Of course I came to get you! Can't send just anybody to get two of the guests of honor," he quipped winking at her. Ichigo felt that old familiar stirring of protectiveness bubble up at the gesture but kept in his temper; they were all friends and he knew Hisagi wasn't actually flirting with her that was just the way he was. Looking back at Ichigo the man asked, "Are you guys ready to go?" At his nod the shinigami picked up one of their bags, ignoring Orihime's protest and walked back out the door. "Normally I'd say we could use shunpo to get to the senkaimon but seeing as you need to take your body with you we'll have to use other means of transportation," Shuuhei advised with a smile.

Ichigo nodded over to their car, "It's not much but it'll get the job done. Is there some place we can leave it?" Shuuhei nodded, "The gate is located in the basement of one of our contacts here, we can park your car in their garage, shouldn't be a problem."

Upon their arrival they found such to be the case and Ichigo let the keys with them in case they had reason to move it. Stepping up to the gate they waved goodbye to their benefactors before moving forward into the bright light. Thankfully since this was an official entrance they didn't need to worry about "the cleaner".

"I'm warning you now," Hisagi said to Orihime, "Rangiku has been talking about how excited she is to see you for the past 6 months so get ready for a hug that just might kill you." Orihime giggled but Ichigo scowled, concerned he'd have to muscle off the busty fukutachio should his girlfriend actually start turning blue. Sure enough the moment they exited into Soul Society Orihime was enveloped in the arms of her good friend.

"Hime-chan!" she shouted excitedly, "Oh my goodness I missed you so much!" Orihime returned the hug as best she could while eking out, "Hi Rangiku, I missed you too." Finally the woman let go of her without intervention needed from the protective orange haired male standing nearby only to tackle him next. "Oh Ichigo, I'm so, so, so happy you and she are finally together!"

Her proclamation surprised him but then he realized he hadn't seen any of these people save for Renji and Rukia a few times when they made a point to visit him and Shuuhei when he'd been assigned to Karakura before he'd left for America. Patting her awkwardly on the back he replied, "Um, thanks Rangiku, I am too."

When she'd released him the foursome made their way to the Kuchiki Manor where the guest couple would be staying under request of Rukia. Truthfully Byakuya still harbored, if not hostile, annoyed feelings towards the male of the orange haired pair but Orihime he did not mind. She was polite, had done much for his world and was a true friend to his sister so he felt he could stand the presence of her rude, overbearing counterpart for the duration of their stay to make Rukia happy.

Upon their arrival they found Rukia, Renji and Byakuya waiting for them at the front doors. Orihime and Rukia ran to each other hugging fiercely while Ichigo walked up to Renji and shook his hand. Looking to Byakuya he was tempted to do the same, but he knew the captain wouldn't take it as the sign of respect Ichigo would have meant it to be. Instead he opted to bow, Orihime having begged him to be on his best behavior so they wouldn't have any issues while staying there. She knew in some weird way Ichigo bonded with people, particularly men, through antagonizing them but this method did not work with the head of the Kuchiki clan.

Startled but not showing it on his face Byakuya returned the bow. As he rose he spoke, "Welcome, Kurosaki-san and Inoue-san. Please get settled in and then we will convene in the dining room for breakfast." Without another word he turned and walked back into the manor. Renji was staring after him shocked he'd condoned to speak so politely to his human friend but then laughed, "Looks like you finally shocked the taichou Ichigo, nice job." Ichigo smirked casting a glance at Orihime who was positively beaming. "Worth it," he thought looking at her happy face.

A servant stepped forward taking their bags and asking them to follow him to their guest chambers, an immaculate but comfortable room. They took a few moments to unpack then followed their escort to the dining hall. When they arrived it was to find their host, his sister and her soon to be husband already seated. Hisagi and Rangiku had left back to their divisions, the business of the day still to be done. The three people joining them at the table were relieved of duty for the time being in the preparations of the upcoming event.

Talk naturally fell to the impending nuptials. Orihime turned to Rukia, trying to stifle another yawn, and asked, "Ok so who do you want to attend your bachelorette party?" Rukia looked confused, "My what?"

Blinking at her Orihime giggled, "I forget, our traditions aren't the same as yours. I guess I should ask if you even want one. The same goes for you, Renji-kun, but in regards to a bachelor party."

Renji shrugged, "Depends on what it is I guess."

Ichigo smirked, "Traditionally both events are one last "hurrah" before tying the knot. Activities vary but we'll be limited here. For you it'd probably be gathering whoever of your noisy bunch you want to go to a bar and drink, which is what you normally do anyway, but this time it would be in "your honor" as the groom. For Rukia I have no idea."

Orihime laughed at the bewildered looks the couple was giving the two of them as she answered, "For Rukia we'd probably try to go dancing or something if we were in the living world. Here, much the same as what Ichigo described. It's just a chance for your friends, typically the wedding party were there one, and any close family you'd want at something like that to celebrate you individually."

Rukia still looked slightly confused but said slowly, "Well, I mean, if you want to plan something Orhime that would be fine with me."

"Same goes for you Ichigo, just tell me what you need from me," Renji piped in.

Orihime clapped her hands while Ichigo barely suppressed a groan. He knew he couldn't get out of this so he might as well suck it up for Hime's sake. His girlfriend answered for both of them, "We just need the names of whoever you want to come, leave the rest to us!"

Fairly quickly they were able to produce their lists, Renji reluctantly including his soon to be brother-in-law though he was fairly certain he'd rather drop dead before coming to something as such he'd heard described.

Ichigo grinned at the contents of the list looking up at the so far silent man, "May as well get this one out of the way first, you in Byakuya?" Sending a look that gave ice a run for its money he was about to answer with a curt "no" when his eye flickered to Rukia. She had a…hopeful look on her face. "Surely she cannot want me to attend this ridiculous gathering?" he mused, figuring Renji wanted him there about as much as he wanted to go. However, over the years he'd worked to better his relationship with his adopted sister and found he quite enjoyed her company and, when possible, making her happy. He felt in that way he was finally honoring Hisana's memory instead of wallowing in it.

Shifting his gaze back to the orange haired annoyance he inclined his head in a signal of assent. The look on both his and his lieutenant's face was worth it. Momentarily stunned Ichigo just stared at him until Orihime nudged him under the table with her foot and he was thankful she was the one across from him; had it been Rukia his shin would have been bruised.

Clearing his throat he placed a tick mark next to the captain's name, "Great, um, I'll let you know more details when I have them." Nodding again Byakuya rose from his seat, "Please make yourselves at home, I must see to some clan duties." With that he was gone and Renji let out a deep sigh.

"I never in a million years expected him to say yes," he muttered but a very small part of him, deep down, was pleased regardless of whether his motivation to be there was because of Rukia which he didn't doubt. Either way it was a step in a positive direction for he and his captain, at least he hoped so.

"Anyway, I know Orihime said to leave it to us but I have no idea where to take you so tell me what your favorite bar around here is and we'll go there. What are we thinking, tomorrow night?" he asked looking to his girlfriend again. She nodded, "The wedding is on Sunday so that works perfectly. Thanks Ichi!" She ended with a kiss to his cheek before scurrying off with Rukia to make plans for the women. Ichigo watched her go and Renji watched him.

Leaning back in his chair the red head asked with a grin on his face, "So, when you are two going to take the plunge?"

Ichigo returned the look, "I'm going to ask her when we go back to Japan. Chad's helping with the preparations." Renji's eyes widened, "Seriously? I didn't think you'd ask her until you were done with school."

Ichigo shrugged, "We're already living together, plus I know there's no one else I want to be with so it makes sense to make it official sooner than later. I'm hoping she'll agree to a small wedding with just our living friends and family. We can do a bigger party later because I know she'd want to invite half of Soul Society since she has so many friends here."

"Good luck with that," muttered Renji then stood and extended his hand to his friend, "But seriously, glad to see you both finally together, it was about time!" Ichigo grasped the proffered hand, shaking firmly then stood punching Renji in the arm, "Come on, enough of this bromance crap, let's go talk to your pals about Friday." Renji returned the jab before they headed out of the room.

By the end of the day everyone on the lists had been contacted and it appeared they'd have perfect attendance the following evening despite the last minute plans.

Orihime had planned a trip to an onsen with the women opting for a relaxing night which she felt Rukia would appreciate more. Rangiku, of course, brought plenty of sake from her own stash which they set up in their rented room. Rukia's guests, in addition to Orihime and Rangiku, included Nanao, Isane, Momo, Kukaku and Tatsuki. She, Chad, and Uryuu had arrived that day to Soul Society for the wedding as additional special guests from the living world. They spent the majority of the late afternoon into evening enjoying the services of the onsen including massages, manicures, pedicures and of course the hot spring baths. Orihime was glad of the relaxation as well, having been feeling even more tired but trying to hide it because she was having so much fun.

Ichigo had his hands full handling a group of enthusiastic and rowdy shinigami men, noting to himself that Orihime owed him something for the current hell he was experiencing. Though when he noticed the grin on Renji's face and saw he was really enjoying himself he figured it wasn't all bad.

Unsurprisingly Renji's guest list had been larger than Rukia's given he'd been able to be more social than her over the years prior to their pairing up. Amongst the group were Shuuhei, Toushiro, Shunsui, Byakuya, Joushiro, Ikkaku, Tetsuzaemon, Izuru, Yumichika, and surprisingly Hanataro along with Chad and Uryuu. He would have invited Kenpachi but everyone was concerned he'd just pick a fight with Ichigo which they did not want. They'd gone to a local bar close to Division 6 and proceeded to drink until most could barely tell up from down. The former ryokas along with Hanataro and Byakuya remained the most sober both from choice and necessity.

The following day Orihime woke up feeling even more exhausted. "I hope I'm not coming down with something," she thought making her way to the bathroom to splash water on her face. When she'd dried off and looked in the mirror she gasped. Around her eyes were dark grey circles; she looked like she hadn't slept in a week! "Guess I didn't sleep as well as I thought," she murmured reaching for her concealer. The last thing she needed was anyone worrying about her when Rukia and Renji's special day was tomorrow! Adequately covering up she nodded her head and went back out to the main room, the ladies sprawled about amongst the bed, a cot and floor mats.

Ichigo and Renji had returned to the manor, everyone having gone home at the end of the evening. The groom to be woke with a major hangover but thanked Ichigo nonetheless for the great night when the orange hair had checked on him. "Yeah, yeah, just sleep it off. See you at lunch," he muttered closing the door, Renji lost to snoring again. Heading to the terrace of the guest room Ichigo looked out over the gardens, smiling to himself. He'd been nervous about asking Orihime to marry him, though he wasn't sure why, being fairly sure she'd say yes since she had practically vowed herself to him already. But being around all the wedding talk and final preparations had gotten him somewhat excited and he couldn't wait to get her back to Japan (another surprise she didn't know about) to ask her by the river. The river…where they'd had so many talks, so many private moments that neither knew were so significant for the other because they'd not known about each other's feelings.

Shaking his head he moved back inside just in time to see Orihime entering the room.

"Hey Hime, how was your night with the girls?" he asked wrapping her in a hug. From her position in his arms he felt her take a deep breath before answering, "It was fun but I'm really tired." He pulled back to look at her, noticing she looked a little pale. Placing the back of his hand against her forehead he frowned, "You're burning up; I think you might have a fever. Come on, let's get you changed and into bed." When she didn't protest he knew something was really wrong. Within ten minutes she was settled in, already starting to fall asleep as Ichigo pulled the dark curtains across the windows before kissing her forehead and leaving the room.

Rukia, rounding the corner a moment later, saw his look of concern. "Ichigo, what's the matter?" Meeting her eyes he replied, "I think Orihime's sick. She came back to the room saying she was tired but when I felt her forehead she was hot. She's asleep right now."

Frowning Rukia nodded. She'd noticed the night before that Orihime looked a little under the weather but being Orihime she'd brushed it aside, focusing all her attention on making the night special for her. She smiled at the kindness of her human friend and just hoped she hadn't pushed herself so hard that she ended up sick.

Both Orihime and Renji rested for most of the day, though the lieutenant was up and about in time for lunch while the healer was still asleep. When Ichigo had returned from checking on her again Rukia asked from her seat on the couch next to her soon to be husband, "How is she? Did she wake up to eat?" Ichigo shook his head, flopping down on a chair with a sigh, "I managed to wake her but she said she wasn't hungry. First thing she worried about of course was the wedding tomorrow. I told her to go back to sleep. If she doesn't want to eat at dinner then I might have to call someone from Fourth to look at her." He rubbed his face groaning out, "And here I thought this would be an uneventful trip to Soul Society, save for your wedding of course."

Renji and Rukia glanced at each other, clearly at a loss as to what to do. Looking at the pair Ichigo shook his head, "Shit guys, I'm sorry this is happening now of all times. I'd take her home but I know you'd both just worry and honestly I don't think she's fit to travel."

Rukia frowned, "Ichigo, she's more than welcome to stay as long as needed, you both are." He offered a small smile in thanks before standing again. "I need to get some air, would you mind staying close by, just in case she needs anything?"

She nodded saying, "We'll look after her." Nodding in return he walked out of the room. "Should I go with him?" Renji asked unsurely. Rukia shook her head, "No, he needs some time to himself and I need to check on some things for tomorrow, so can you go stay nearby for Orihime?"

"Of course," he replied kissing her cheek before she rose from her seat. Smiling down at him she squeezed his hand and then made her own exit. Renji grabbed a book and chair, heading to sit just outside Orihime and Ichigo's room so he could hear if she needed him.

Inside the room Orihime was tossing and turning, sweat pouring from almost every pore. Finally her eyes flew open and she sat up, heaving deep breaths. The door opened and the next moment Renji was next to her, "Orihime, what's wrong? Do you hurt? Do you need to throw up?" Nodding she struggled to get up but he saved her the trouble, hefting her into his arms easily before depositing her in the bathroom. She'd barely gotten her head over the toilet before she was expelling the very little in her stomach, most of it being whatever she'd consumed the previous evening. Renji held her hair for her and rubbed her back waiting until she was done to speak softly, "It's going to be ok, we'll get someone from Fourth to look at you."

Shaking her head as she flushed the toilet she collapsed back from her knees to sit on the floor, "No, Renji-kun, that…that helped a lot. I think maybe I just ate something bad last night. Really, I'll be fine." Frowning he opened his mouth again but she cut off any argument, "Tomorrow you and Rukia are getting married and there is no way I'm missing it. I'm fine but don't tell Ichigo about this."

"Orihime, I can't-"but she met his eyes, "Please Renji-kun, I…I really do feel better, I actually wish I'd done that sooner today, maybe I could have enjoyed time with you all." He growled in frustration but nodded knowing in the back of his mind he would regret this decision. Helping her up off the floor he commented, "Well, if you don't want him worried I suggest you bathe, you're covered in sweat so he'll know something's up. I'll get one of the servants to change the sheets while you do that." She hugged him tightly, "Thank you Renji-kun, I promise everything will be perfect tomorrow."

Heaving a big sigh Renji commented, "As long as you're ok I agree." She smiled up at him before he exited the bathroom. Making his way to the hall he asked one of the maids to please change out the sheets for Inoue-san and Kurosaki-san.

Ichigo had returned ten minutes after the sheets were changed, startled to see the bed made so completely and Orihime missing. Walking to the door of the bathroom he opened it slowly as he called, "Hime? Are you ok?"

"Yes, I'm just taking a bath. Sleeping really seemed to help, I guess I just needed some rest," she answered as he moved all the way into the room. Staring at her covered in bubbles he was tempted to strip down and join her but if he did they would be embarrassingly late to dinner, which with Byakuya around was not an option. Plus, though she said she was feeling better, Ichigo knew Orihime could be as stubborn as he was when it came to her own well-being and didn't want her exerting any more energy that she needed at the moment. Sending her a coy smile he remarked, "I'll be downstairs, don't want to be late you know." She blushed under his gaze but smiled back, a soft, "I love you," coming from her lips. "Love you too Hime," he replied before exiting and heading to the lounge to wait for everyone.

When Orihime appeared she did indeed look slightly better, eyes brighter and countenance cheerful though she continued yawning from time to time. Ichigo noticed Renji eyeing her somewhat apprehensively but figured he was just worried. Over the years Orihime had become like a sister to the tattooed man for which Ichigo was thankful; if he couldn't be there he knew Renji would defend Orihime with his life the same way Ichigo would do for Rukia were the roles reversed. Both men trusted the other implicitly to watch over each other's families.

Rukia admonished her for pushing herself too hard but Orihime just laughed it off as she always did. As the meal was consumed they discussed the plans one more time. Finally it was time for bed; the big day almost upon them.

The next morning dawned bright and beautiful without a cloud in the sky. Orihime hurried about, thankfully feeling much better than she had the previous couple of days and believed all to be right now. "Maybe I just had a weird bug, I hope I didn't give it to anyone," she thought but then pushed the negativity from her mind. This was Rukia and Renji's big day and she was not going to ruin it by worrying!

Rukia looked stunning in her full length white traditional wedding kimono, red sash tied at her waist and hair twisted up into a bun secured with a sakura blossom covered clip. Rangiku did her makeup, a simple pink motif to compliment the hairclip. Orihime wore a green kimono and pink sash, hair also done up but in a French twist.

Finally, when all the guests were seated, the music started and Ichigo and Orihime headed down the aisle, Ichigo moving to stand next to Renji while Orihime moved to the other side to wait for Rukia. Everyone turned as they stood to watch the entrance of the bride and her brother. Rukia was positively beaming, never taking her eyes off Renji in his black kimono and red sash as they made their way down the aisle.

When they'd reached their end point brother and sister turned to one another, Byakuya leaning down to kiss her cheek. "Who gives this woman to wed this man?" Ukitake was performing the ceremony, smiling benignly down at his lieutenant and fellow captain. Meeting his eyes Byakuya said clearly, "I do." Renji took a step forward and Byakuya placed Rukia's hand in his. Meeting his lieutenant's eyes he said, "She is yours to protect and love though I will never be far behind in either." Renji nodded then looked back to Rukia.

Stepping up to the altar the couple waited as Ukitake explained the purpose of marriage and the thrill of this day. "The couple has written their own vows so I will defer to them. Rukia, ladies first." The crowd chuckled slightly and the raven haired beauty smiled up at her red headed love.

Taking a deep breath she spoke softly but clearly, "Renji, I know this hasn't been the easiest road for us. I had so much pride, too much really, to allow myself to let you in. But once I did it felt like my heart returned to me. You've brought passion back to my soul which felt so dead before you. I vow, before you and these witnesses, to do all in my power to bestow upon you as best I can even a fraction of what you've given to me. I love you, my friend, my confidant, my love." At her conclusion she placed his ring upon his finger.

Renji cleared his throat, "Rukia, I've loved you since we were kids and every year I've known you fell deeper in love with you. The time and distance apart mean nothing now standing here with you, as we conclude being separate to step forward in union of heart, mind, body and soul. I have never nor will I ever love anyone as much as I love you and vow, before you and these witnesses, to honor, cherish, protect and love you every day our lives." Renji slipped on her wedding band, rubbing his thumb over it briefly as he stared in her eyes.

"And we, as your friends and family, vow to support you both throughout your journey, two roads now joined to one forever. Renji, you may kiss your bride." Grinning Renji leaned down, kissing Rukia sweetly but long, cheers erupting around them. Pulling back he whispered, "I love you Rukia Abarai." Rukia blushed and returned, "And I you, Renji Abarai."

As they made their way back down the aisle Ichigo and Orihime joined one another to follow them, Orihime with tears streaming down her face. "Oh Ichi, I'm so happy for them," she whispered as they walked. Looking at her Ichigo couldn't help but imagine her in a white dress coming towards him and reconsidered his plans for a small wedding deciding that since she was the best thing in his whole life he should work to give her the best wedding possible.

When they'd reached the grand ball room for the reception Orihime made her way to stand next to Shuuhei. Ichigo sat at one of the tables, grinning up at her. Clearing her throat Orihime garnered everyone's attention, "As a special surprise for the new Mr. and Mrs. Abarai, Shuuhei-kun and I are honored to provide a special song for their first dance as husband and wife." Rukia almost squealed in excitement as she was led out to the center of the room by Renji.

Shuuhei began strumming as Orihime sang "A Thousand Years", the most perfect song anyone could think of for the fukutaichou couple. They swayed and turned about to the music, Orihime's clear voice echoing beautifully throughout the room. Renji leaned down to whisper, "I love you." Rukia smiled back up at him, "I love you too." Then they kissed as the song ended. Clapping erupted and the couple made their way to their friends, hugging both tightly in thanks.

After their performance Orihime and Shuuhei returned to their respective significant others; her to Ichigo and he to Rangiku. A small string ensemble supplied music for the remainder of the evening as dinner was served. Ichigo was glad to see Orihime's voracious appetite had returned the sight of her consuming way more than her stomach should be able to hold bringing him a strange comfort. Relaxing slightly he allowed himself to more fully enjoy the festivities, only to be jarred out of his contentedness by Kenpachi's gruff voice, "There you are Kurosaki! Time for that rematch!"

"Damn it," hissed Ichigo eyeing around for a quick exit before the bullheaded captain could further cause a scene. Dealing with a crazy Kenpachi was one thing; dealing with a thoroughly pissed off Rukia was another! Spying a back door he took off but forgot he wasn't in shinigami form! Kenpachi would have easily closed the distance had Orihime not thrown her shield sphere around him. He turned his crazy countenance on her and Ichigo momentarily forgot the purpose of her assistance until her eyes met his with the clear message of, "Get out of here!" written plan as day. Nodding thanks he took off for their room, slammed his badge into his chest and took off into the night.

Yachiru was squealing and laughing in delight, "Big boobies caught Kenny! Kenny, you'd be really bad at tag with her!" Growling out he shook his fist at Orihime, "I'm not one to make an enemy of, Inoue-san, remember that!" But she just smiled and replied, "Oh Kenpachi, you know you love the thrill of the chase." The comment made Ikkaku and Yumichika snort which earned them death glares from their captain, though neither was unaccustomed to it. Sensing Ichigo had a good head start Orihime let down her sphere, Kenpachi tearing off in hot pursuit.

Sighing Orihime sat back in her chair, more tired than she expected to be considering the eleventh's taichou hadn't even put up that much resistance to her enclosure, thereby cementing her theory of his love of the game as much as fighting.

"That was priceless Orihime-chan," Ikkaku cackled patting her on the shoulder as Yumichika nodded, "Very adept of you. Given that our captain is less than stellar at sensing reiatsu Kurosaki-san should be able to lose him, provided he can at least momentarily subdue his trail."

"Ichi-kun has been practicing that a lot," Orihime offered taking another bite of cake, "That's probably why we don't have as many direct hollow attacks where we live."

"Oh ho! I thought I'd heard word you two were shacking up together," Ikkaku crowed winking at her causing the young woman to blush. A moment later he was rubbing his head where it had been smacked by Yumichika, "Please, can't you see you're embarrassing the poor thing?"

Orihime offered a small smile, "I'm not embarrassed Yumi-kun, well, not that much but it still catches me off guard that this is all real…" she trailed off sure the violent men of the eleventh were not interested in romantic notions. Conversation moved on as the two men and others joined in recounting the last two years to the healer, her sides hurting from laughing at the antics Yachiru would pull on the new recruits of the eleventh.

Eventually the reception wound down but Ichigo had still not returned. Moving to the couple of the hour Orihime hugged them both as they prepared to depart for their honeymoon, "Thank you so much for making Ichigo and I part of your special day! I'm sorry he's not here to say goodbye but he was trying to save the reception hall from turning to fight fodder." Renji grinned kissing her cheek before whispering in her ear, "Tell him I owe him for making sure she stayed in a good mood." Orihime blushed but giggled then hugged Rukia again before the couple made their way out of the hall.

Heading back to their guest room Orihime was just about to take off her kimono when she felt Ichigo approaching. His reiatsu level was lower and for a moment she was proud of how far his shielding capabilities had come until he landed heavily wounded and bloody on the ground.

"Ichi-kun!" she cried kneeling next to him and sent out her healing dome over his now prone body. As she mended him back together his breathing became more regular, the wounds closing leaving no trace of their existence. "What happened?" she whispered when he was back to full consciousness.

Growling Ichigo slammed his fist against the ground, "That damn Kenpachi is what happened! Shit, you would think with how he attacked me we were right back to the first time we ever came to Soul Society! He has no self restraint at all!" Breathing heavily now from anger he continued, "I have no idea how any of his squad survives basic training!" The healing completed Orihime's spirits retreated to their positions.

Helping him up the red head murmured, "I don't think he trains them Ichi-kun, that's mostly Ikkaku-kun and Yumi-kun." Shaking his head he drew her into his arms kissing her softly, "Thanks for putting me back together, sorry I had to take off like that." Orihime grinned and relayed Renji's message to him making Ichigo actually laugh. Then she noticed his eyes grow hungry as he kissed her cheek before moving down to her neck. Orihime breathing increased once then again at his heated tone, "Speaking of feeling good. Do you know how hard it's been to keep my hands off of you all day? Green is definitely your color Hime."

Reaching up he released the sash and then buttons of her dress the whole time not relinquishing his mouth from her sweet flesh. Once all had been undone he slowly pushed the material off her shoulders, its satiny texture sliding easily down the smoothness of her skin. Pulling back up to her face he cupped her cheek, "I love you." Smiling up into his face she whispered back, "I love you too Ichi-kun."

The rest of their evening was spent amongst tangled limbs and sheets, the feeling of love and longing in the day culminating in their expression of passion for one another. Ichigo had nearly proposed right there but knew he wanted to do it right, so he occupied his mouth with pleasuring his woman until they both collapsed into a sated sleep.

Author's Note: Another fluffy chapter but I wanted us to get to the wedding! Next chapters will bring a little more drama to the table to spice things up a bit! Reviews feed the muse so please let me know your thoughts and thank you for sticking with this story!